The drive to Victor's house seemed to pass in a blur. Victor's penthouse was controlled chaos with canvases stacked against walls, paint-stained drop cloths covering expensive furniture, the sharp scent of turpentine hanging in the air. It was a beautiful apartment where floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the city lights.

"Impressive," Victoria said, though her attention was focused more on Victor. "So this is what a famous artist's place looks like?" She chuckled, ...